CAREER EXPLORATION AND
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Networking

What is Networking?

A network is an interconnected
group of people who can be used as resources for your search for a
career or a job. Networking is the process of building a group of
supporters or contacts that provide information and guidance for each
stage of your career development. A large group of professional
connections can be an invaluable tool as you explore different talents
and interests, career options and industries.

Why is Networking Important?

Even though many job seekers
look to classified ads and online listings as a search technique,
estimates show that only 10% to 20% of jobs are ever published.
Other surveys suggest over 50% of jobs are filled solely through
networking! [1] For this reason, building connections with
people needs to be an important part of any job search strategy. Job
Fairs, club and organizational events provide great opportunities to
begin making connections.

Tips about Networking:

Start building your network by
forming a list of natural acquaintances and contacts which can include:
Family and their friends, friends and their families, the Lyon College
Alumni Career Network, volunteer affiliations (clubs, organizations,
church, etc...), professors, colleagues, and other professionals.

Building a network is an
investment. It takes time to build a group of professional
contacts and it may take longer to locate the information you
need. Don't expect results to be immediate. If you are a
student, work on expanding your circle. You never know which
conversation could help lead to your future!

Be prepared and create
an action plan. Make a positive first impression. Research
before you meet potential contacts. Know what you are talking
about and know what information you want to come away with.

Networking is about
building meaningful relationships. Having ten meaningful
contacts is better than having twenty casual ones.

Obtain referrals
whenever possible before conducting job interviews. Be sure to
mention the name of the person who referred you.

Stay proactive and
dedicated. Networking is an on-going process and is only as good
as you want it to be!

Be sure and remember to
thank those that helped you find a job!

Sample Networking Questions

Networking is not about being
artificial or phony. It is the art of small talk. And like any other
skill, your ability to network will get better with practice and
experience. Use these sample questions as a guide to improve your
networking abilities, but remember to personalize these questions to
your specific needs and style. Be genuine!

What skills or talents
are required for your position?

What college experiences
and studies relate to your current position?

What do you find most
challenging about your job?

What do you like and/or
dislike about your job?

What specific skills
have you acquired in your position?

Is your field growing?
How many are entering the profession?

What are different types
of jobs in this field?

How have industry
changes affected your company?

Are there any future
developments in the field that could present future opportunity?

How did you get your
job?

What is the outlook for
entry-level professionals in this field?

If you could start all
over again, would you change your career path?

How do most people enter
this profession?

What qualifications do
you usually seek in a potential new hire?

Are there any training
programs? What skills and experience are necessary?